The Houston Rockets delivered an overwhelming performance against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night at the Toyota Center, securing a 146-117 victory. This marks the Rockets’ second consecutive win over the Pelicans, having also defeated them on Thursday night.
Dillon Brooks led the charge for Houston with 27 points, while Zion Williamson was the top scorer for New Orleans with 20 points. The game also saw Amen Thompson exit early due to an ankle injury, though head coach Ime Udoka did not provide an immediate update on his condition.
This was Houston’s highest-scoring game of the season, surpassing their 143-107 victory over the Chicago Bulls in November.
Game Recap
First Quarter
The Rockets got off to a strong start, capitalizing on Pelicans’ turnovers to generate fast-break points. Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson energized the home crowd with highlight plays, helping Houston take a 39-28 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Second Quarter
Houston extended its advantage early in the second quarter, with Sengun, Aaron Holiday, and Jabari Smith Jr. making key contributions. The Pelicans briefly cut the lead to nine points with a 13-2 run, but Houston responded with a 10-3 surge to enter halftime up 74-58.
Third Quarter
The Rockets quickly inflated their lead back to 20 points, but the Pelicans fought back with an 8-0 run, forcing a Rockets’ timeout. Houston responded well, knocking down key shots to reassert control, heading into the fourth quarter with a commanding 109-83 lead.
Fourth Quarter
The Rockets continued their dominance, with Brooks assisting Thompson on an emphatic dunk that forced a Pelicans’ timeout. With 5:31 remaining and a 129-96 lead, Udoka subbed in the bench unit, allowing Houston to coast to victory.
Looking Ahead
With this win, the Rockets have swept their season series against the Pelicans, winning all four matchups. They’ll look to build on this momentum as they continue their push in the Western Conference standings.
